The Washington Commanders are eyeing a potential trade for Cincinnati Bengals' star defender Trey Hendrickson as they continue their search for an edge rusher. After passing on top edge talent in the draft, the Commanders could look to make a significant move, but they face challenges due to limited draft capital. Their recent trades for offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil have depleted their assets, leaving them with only five picks for the upcoming draft.

While trading for Hendrickson would likely require parting with a high-value asset like defensive tackle Daron Payne, the Bengals are seeking a hefty return, complicating matters further. With Hendrickson expressing a desire to remain with the Bengals amidst ongoing contract discussions, the likelihood of a trade seems slim unless the Commanders are willing to offer future draft picks or other significant compensation. If a deal doesn’t materialize soon, Washington may have to wait until the trade deadline to pursue other options or invest in a young prospect in the 2026 draft.

In a crucial NFC Championship game, the Washington Commanders face off against the Philadelphia Eagles, both teams missing essential players due to injuries. Daron Payne, a pivotal defensive tackle for the Commanders, has been ruled out, significantly impacting their defensive strategy. The Eagles, meanwhile, were uncertain about the status of Cam Jurgens, their starting center. Reports indicate that Jurgens struggled in pregame warm-ups and is likely to miss the game, putting additional pressure on backup Landon Dickerson to handle the snaps during this vital matchup. With kickoff set for 3 p.m. ET, fans are anticipating a closely contested game.

The Philadelphia Eagles have elevated fullback Khari Blasingame and linebacker Nick Morrow for the NFC Championship Game against the Washington Commanders, mirroring their prior elevation for the Divisional Round matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Blasingame contributed on special teams, logging 15 snaps, while Morrow participated in 18 special teams snaps and recorded two tackles. Morrow's recent signing to the practice squad came after the Eagles lost middle linebacker Nakobe Dean to a season-ending injury. Morrow previously started 11 games this season before joining the Eagles.

In addition, the Eagles have returned edge rusher KJ Henry to their practice squad, releasing veteran offensive lineman Cam Erving, who was signed as a precaution due to center Cam Jurgens' back injury. If Jurgens had been unable to play, Landon Dickerson would shift to center, with Tyler Steen stepping into the left guard position. Meanwhile, the Commanders face a notable setback with Daron Payne's absence due to a knee injury and a broken finger, which will impact their defensive front against the Eagles' strong running game led by Saquon Barkley.

The Washington Commanders face a significant setback as defensive tackle Daron Payne has been ruled out for the NFC Championship Game due to a knee injury. This loss is particularly impactful as the team prepares to face the Philadelphia Eagles and their star running back, Saquon Barkley. Payne has been a consistent presence on the defensive line, playing every game since 2020 and notching four sacks this season.

Despite battling a dislocated thumb in previous playoffs, Payne's knee injury forced him to miss practice all week. Initially listed as questionable, his status was downgraded to out just before the game. In Payne's absence, rookie Jer'Zhan Newton will step in alongside Jon Allen, who had missed previous matchups against the Eagles. The Commanders previously managed to limit Barkley to just 27 yards in the second half during their earlier encounter, highlighting the challenge ahead without Payne.

The Washington Commanders are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles in a pivotal NFC Championship Game, with the Eagles favored by 6 points. Betting lines opened higher at 48.5 before settling at 47.5. The Eagles aim to maintain momentum after a previous win over the Commanders, where Saquon Barkley emerged as a dominant force. In terms of player injuries, the Commanders will be without RG Sam Cosmi due to an ACL injury, while DT Daron Payne is questionable. The Eagles, meanwhile, will monitor QB Jalen Hurts as he manages a knee injury, with TE Cam Jurgens also listed as questionable.

The Commanders have shown resilience, particularly under QB Jayden Daniels, who has proven to be a top-tier playmaker. However, their run defense remains a critical weakness as they face an Eagles' rushing offense led by Barkley. The Eagles boast a formidable pass defense, with a strong secondary that could challenge Washington's aerial attack. With temperatures low and manageable weather on the horizon, both teams will need to effectively execute their game plans to secure a spot in the Super Bowl.